Maritime Traditions on the Delaware Bay at Ostara’s Coffee House

Join the Bayshore Center at Bivalve for a morning presentation on New Jersey’s Official Tall Ship, the A.J. Meerwald, followed by book sales and an author signing with Museum Curator Rachel Dolhanczyk.

Maritime Traditions on the Delaware Bay is a special presentation celebrating America’s 250th, hosted at Ostara’s Coffee House.

Join us September 16 at Ostara’s Coffee House for a presentation on the A.J. Meerwald followed by book sales and an author signing with Rachel Dolhanczyk.

About Maritime Traditions on the Delaware Bay

Celebrate America’s 250th by exploring the rich maritime heritage of the Delaware Bay.

Join Jessica Yorke, Executive Director, and Rachel Dolhanczyk, Museum Curator and local author, from the Bayshore Center at Bivalve for an engaging presentation on the history of New Jersey’s Official Tall Ship, A.J. Meerwald.

Built in 1928 as an oyster schooner, the A.J. Meerwald worked the Delaware Bay oyster industry before serving the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II. Today, the nearly 100-year-old vessel continues its legacy as a floating classroom, offering educational programs and public sails that connect visitors with New Jersey’s maritime history and the ecology of the Delaware Bay.

Today, the A.J. Meerwald sails from the Cape May–Lewes Ferry Terminal throughout the summer, offering public sails, educational programs, and private charters. Guests can experience New Jersey’s Official Tall Ship firsthand while learning about the maritime traditions and natural resources of the Delaware Bay.

Following the presentation, Rachel Dolhanczyk will have copies of her book, A.J. Meerwald: New Jersey’s Official Tall Ship, available for purchase and signing.

This presentation is hosted at Ostara’s and is perfect for history enthusiasts, sailors, nature lovers, and anyone interested in learning more about the maritime traditions that helped shape South Jersey.

Event Details

Wednesday, September 16, 2026
10:00 AM

Ostara’s Coffee House
600 Park Boulevard 29 -3
West Cape May, NJ 08204

We hope you’ll join us for Maritime Traditions on the Delaware Bay as we celebrate America’s 250th and explore the remarkable story of New Jersey’s Official Tall Ship.

Looking for more ways to experience the Bayshore?

Book an A.J. Meerwald Sail

Learn more About the Bayshore Center at Bivalve

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